Sunderland are reportedly looking to wrap up a loan deal for Aston Villa striker Ross McCormack before their season-opening clash against Derby County.

The Black Cats are understood to have opened talks with the former Leeds United and Fulham ace last week after being given permission by Championship rivals Villa.

TEAMtalk reports that Sunderland are confident of getting an agreement officially over the line before their showdown with Derby at the Stadium of Light on Friday evening, with a season-long loan the most likely option.

It is suggested that all that is left to agree upon is the structure of McCormack's hefty wages, which the North-East outfit will likely have to take care of in full.

Sunderland, now under the management of Simon Grayson, have brought in six new players since their relegation from the Premier League in 2016-17.